Explore Bowling Ball Beach

Point Arena, California

5.0/5

based on 1 reviews

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Explore this Point Area beach with huge spherical stones lining the beach. This is an amazing spot for a sunset or beach picnic.

This scenic beach is a part of Schooner Gulch State Beach in Mendocino County. The beach is named after it's iconic sandstone "bowling balls" found there. There's parking along the west side of the highway with two trailheads. The southern trail will take you to Schooner Gulch Beach.

Legend has it that Schooner Gulch is named after a story in which a schooner was spotted, stranded on the beach in the mouth of the gulch; however, in the morning showed no evidence of being there.

If you're looking for picnic goods nearby, stop by Arena Market & Cafe. Caught the sunset and want to stop in for a bite and a beer, head to Unedaeat.

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Reviews

Gabi Robledo

Explore Bowling Ball Beach

05/31/17

I had seen epic pictures photographers had taken at this beach and I thought for sure it would be just a mediocre beach that really good photographers had taken pictures of. I was wrong, everything from the steps you take to get down to the beach, to the dramatic cliffs, to the interesting rocks the lined the shore was surreal and beautiful! Really cool place to check out!

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Explore the Point Arena Lighthouse

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Explore the Point Arena Lighthouse and Trail

Point Arena Lighthouse is situated on the piece of land that is the closest to the Hawaiian Islands from the continental United States. The lighthouse stands at 115 feet high and you are able to go to the top. I did not have time for this, unfortunately but definitely something I will take advantage of on my next visit. What I did make time for was to hike a short trail that flanked the lightho...

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Explore Bowling Ball Beach

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Leave No Trace

Nearby

Hike Stornetta Public Lands

Explore the Point Arena Lighthouse

Explore the Point Arena Lighthouse and Trail

Camp at Camp Navarro

Explore Navarro Beach

Hike the North Trail to the Pygmy Forest

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